Man attacked by group in ‘targeted assault’ in Batley

A man was the victim of a targeted assualt in Batley in what police say is linked to a disagreement between two local groups.

At around 7.20pm last night (Tuesday), a taxi travelling along Field Lane was rammed from behind by a vehicle.

The passenger in the taxi got out of the vehicle and was assaulted by a number of males. Damage was also caused to the taxi.

A black Nissan Navara pick-up, believed to be the vehicle involved in the earlier incident, was found burnt out in Lidgate Gardens, Dewsbury, at around 9pm that evening.

Detective Inspector Stef Wiseman, of Kirklees District CID, said: “This was a targeted attack against a man which we understand is connected to a disagreement between two local groups. At this stage the victim has not come forward to the police and we would urge him to do so so that this incident can be properly investigated.

“We would also like to speak to anyone who has witnessed any part of this incident; whether that be the collision and assault in Field Lane or any activity in Lidgate Gardens where the pick-up vehicle has been found. We understand that a number of people have approached the taxi driver to check on his welfare and we would urge them to come forward.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Kirklees District CID via 101. Information can also be passed to independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.